Thermostat Unit with Multi-Field Human and Pet Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thermostat systems lack flexibility in adapting to changing user habits and fail to accurately distinguish between human presence and that of pets, leading to inefficient temperature control and increased energy costs.
Innovation Solution
A compact sensor-controlled thermostat unit with a temperature sensor, light sensor, and programmable logic controller, utilizing multiple detection fields to differentiate between human and pet presence, and allowing for manual adjustment and remote control, integrated with a radiator for easy installation and accurate temperature regulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a central control unit with spatially distributed sensors is used, then the temperature regulation becomes more accurate and flexible, but the installation effort and system complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the control unit and motion sensor into a single integrated thermostat housing. This merging eliminates the need for separate central control units and distributed sensors, reducing installation complexity while maintaining the ability to detect presence and regulate temperature based on occupancy.
Solution Approach 2:
The thermostat unit performs multiple functions: temperature sensing, presence detection via motion sensor, and control regulation. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate devices, simplifying the system while improving adaptability to changing occupancy patterns.
2Productivity
If conventional motion sensors are used, then the presence of moving objects is detected, but pets are incorrectly identified as humans leading to unwanted temperature increases
Solution Approach 1:
The motion sensor is configured with specific detection parameters that create localized detection characteristics. By adjusting the detection field properties and thresholds, the system distinguishes between different types of motion patterns - human vs. pet - thereby accurately identifying when temperature adjustment is truly needed and avoiding unnecessary energy consumption.
3Extent of automation
If time-controlled thermostats are used, then automatic temperature scheduling is achieved, but flexibility to adapt to changed user habits is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The thermostat incorporates motion sensing feedback that continuously monitors room occupancy. This feedback mechanism allows the system to automatically adjust temperature based on actual presence patterns rather than following fixed schedules, enabling adaptation to changing user habits while maintaining automatic control. The system learns from detected motion patterns and modifies its behavior accordingly.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient, needs-based temperature control with reduced installation effort, accurate differentiation between human and pet presence, and enhanced energy savings through automatic and manual mode selection, as well as remote operation.
Implementation Method 1
at least one light sensor (3)
Implementation Method 2
at least one movement sensor (4) comprising at least two different detection fields (5, 6)
Implementation Method 3
a temperature sensor for recording the current room temperature
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The invention relates to a thermostat unit comprising arranged on or in a housing: a temperature sensor, a temperature controller, at least one light sensor, a data processing unit, and at least one motion sensor comprising at least two detection fields that are different from one another, with temperature regulation based on at least one sensor signal being provided and a Procedure for automatic room temperature control.